WILLIMANTIC, Conn. – The Vermont State University Castleton men's basketball team dropped a Little East Conference matchup on the road, falling 77-42 to Eastern Connecticut State at Geissler Gymnasium Wednesday afternoon.
The Basics
Final Score: Eastern Connecticut 77, VTSU Castleton 42
Location: Geissler Gymnasium – Willimantic, Conn.
Records: Eastern Connecticut 11-4, 3-3 LEC | VTSU Castleton 5-10, 0-6 LEC
How It Happened
Eastern Connecticut struck first, but Castleton quickly settled in by attacking the basket, with several Spartans scoring in the paint. The Spartans briefly held their largest lead of the game at 10-7 with a layup from Will Radcliff before Eastern Connecticut answered with a sustained run. Castleton battled through offensive struggles but remained competitive at times, as Radcliff and Ben Seiler connected on late baskets to slow the Warriors' momentum. Eastern Connecticut capitalized on points off turnovers and second-chance opportunities to extend their lead to 35-22 by halftime.
The Spartans opened the second half with renewed energy, trimming the deficit on a jumper from Zach Thompson and a three-pointer from Adam Bilodeau just over two minutes in. Castleton continued to fight on defense, but scoring droughts and turnovers allowed the Warriors to go on a 14-0 run over the next several minutes. That stretch pushed the lead past 20 points, and the Spartans were unable to recover, falling 77-42.
By the Numbers
- Radcliff led the Spartans with 14 points, five rebounds, two steals and two blocks.
- Seiler added eight points and four rebounds off the bench.
- Castleton shot 30.2 percent from the field and 15.8 percent from three-point range.
- East Conn shot 50.8 percent overall and outscored Castleton 36-22 in the paint, while lso holding a 43-23 rebounding advantage.
What's Next
The Spartans continue their road game stretch with a trip to Western Connecticut on Saturday, January 17, for a 4 p.m. tip-off.
